AI Existential Risk Research Internship 2026 in Amsterdam | €1250/Month + Remote Option
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Are you passionate about artificial intelligence and its long-term impact on humanity? A unique opportunity is now open for aspiring researchers to join the Existential Risk Observatory as an AI Existential Risk Research Intern. This internship offers hands-on experience in one of the most important and rapidly evolving fields today—AI safety and existential risk research.
About the Organization
The Existential Risk Observatory is a nonprofit organization dedicated to reducing the existential risks posed by advanced artificial intelligence. Their work focuses on understanding how AI could potentially threaten humanity and developing policies and strategies to mitigate those risks. The organization is supported by notable funders such as the AIS Tactical Opportunities Fund, Survival and Flourishing Fund, The Dreamery Foundation, and the Long-Term Future Fund.
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Internship Overview
This internship runs for 2 to 4 months, with a flexible start date between June and July 2026. Candidates can work 24 to 40 hours per week, depending on availability. While the preferred location is Amsterdam, the role can also be performed fully remotely, offering flexibility for international applicants.
Interns working full-time will receive a monthly stipend of €1250, with part-time compensation adjusted proportionally.
The Research Project
As an intern, you will contribute to an exciting collaborative research initiative titled “Solving the Right Problem: Towards Researcher Consensus on AI Existential Threat Models.” This project is conducted in partnership with leading institutions, including MIT FutureTech and the Future of Life Institute.
The project addresses a critical issue in AI safety: although many experts agree that advanced AI could pose existential risks, there is significant disagreement about how these risks might unfold. Various threat models have been proposed, including:
- Rapid self-improvement leading to AI takeover
- Complex failure scenarios involving multiple systems
- Gradual human disempowerment over time
The team is currently conducting an extensive literature review and building a taxonomy of these threat models. Your role will involve helping refine this work and contributing to the development of consensus among researchers.
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Your Responsibilities
During the internship, you will:
- Conduct in-depth academic research on AI existential threat models
- Assist in drafting research papers, blog posts, and website content
- Analyze key assumptions and pathways within different threat models
- Contribute to discussions on AI alignment, governance, and risk mitigation
- Collaborate with researchers from partner organizations and external experts
Depending on your contributions, you may have the opportunity to co-author scientific publications in the field of AI safety.
Work Environment and Benefits
This internship provides a supportive and intellectually stimulating environment. Key benefits include:
- €1250/month stipend (full-time basis)
- Flexible working hours (24–40 hours/week)
- Hybrid work setup with a modern office near Amsterdam Central Station
- Opportunities to publish in a high-impact research area
- Exposure to global experts in AI safety
- Networking opportunities within the AI research community
- Potential attendance at conferences and events
- Possibility of a full-time contract after the internship (subject to performance and funding)
Who Should Apply?
This opportunity is ideal for highly motivated individuals with a strong academic background and a deep interest in AI safety. Preferred candidates should:
- Have excellent academic performance (top 5–10% or from a top university)
- Possess strong research and analytical skills
- Be logical thinkers with attention to detail
- Demonstrate excellent academic writing ability
- Have knowledge of AI existential risks and threat models
- Show perseverance and commitment to completing complex projects
A technical background, prior experience in existential risk research, or an existing network in the AI safety community will be considered an advantage.
Application Process
To apply, submit your CV and a short application letter via email to:
info@existentialriskobservatory.org
Make sure your application is sent before Monday, 11 May at 9:00 AM CET.
Final Thoughts
This internship offers a rare chance to work at the forefront of AI safety research. By joining the Existential Risk Observatory, you will not only deepen your understanding of artificial intelligence but also contribute to shaping a safer future for humanity. If you are driven by curiosity, rigorous thinking, and a desire to tackle some of the world’s most pressing challenges, this role could be a perfect fit.
